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Frank Thornton Obituary

LONDON (AP) - British actor Frank Thornton - best known as Captain Peacock in the long-running television comedy "Are You Being Served?" - has died at age 92, his agent said Monday.

The actor is best remembered by British audiences for his comic role in the innuendo-laden hit sitcom, which ran from the 1970s to 1985. He played a mustachioed, pompous floor manager who oversaw his fellow shop workers in a department store.

Thornton's agent, David Daly, said that the actor died in his sleep in his home in London in the early hours of Saturday.

Born in Dulwich, south London, Thornton had worked in insurance after leaving school but took evening classes to become an actor.

He soon took up stage acting and played in London's West End, before serving in the Royal Air Force during World War II. In the 1950s, while still doing theater, he began to branch into television comedy. He appeared on "The Benny Hill Show" and other comedy programs, and also took a small role in the movie "Carry On Screaming."

In the 1970s - with the success of "Are You Being Served?" - Thornton became a household name in Britain.

"He was a great friend and consummate performer who was the glue who really held 'Are You Being Served?' together," said the show's co-creator, Jeremy Lloyd. "He will continue to give people enjoyment."

Later Thornton also became known for his part in another long-running television comedy series, "Last of the Summer Wine."

He has made appearances in dozens of movies, including "No Sex Please, We're British" and more recently "Gosford Park."

Thornton is survived by his wife Beryl, daughter Jane, and three grandchildren.

LONDON (AP) - British actor Frank Thornton - best known as Captain Peacock in the long-running television comedy "Are You Being Served?" - has died at age 92, his agent said Monday.

The actor is best remembered by British audiences for his comic role in the innuendo-laden hit sitcom, which ran from the 1970s to 1985. He played a mustachioed, pompous floor manager who oversaw his fellow shop workers in a department store.

Thornton's agent, David Daly, said that the actor died in his sleep in his home in London in the early hours of Saturday.

Born in Dulwich, south London, Thornton had worked in insurance after leaving school but took evening classes to become an actor.

He soon took up stage acting and played in London's West End, before serving in the Royal Air Force during World War II. In the 1950s, while still doing theater, he began to branch into television comedy. He appeared on "The Benny Hill Show" and other comedy programs, and also took a small role in the movie "Carry On Screaming."

In the 1970s - with the success of "Are You Being Served?" - Thornton became a household name in Britain.

"He was a great friend and consummate performer who was the glue who really held 'Are You Being Served?' together," said the show's co-creator, Jeremy Lloyd. "He will continue to give people enjoyment."

Later Thornton also became known for his part in another long-running television comedy series, "Last of the Summer Wine."

He has made appearances in dozens of movies, including "No Sex Please, We're British" and more recently "Gosford Park."

Thornton is survived by his wife Beryl, daughter Jane, and three grandchildren.

Guest Book Highlights

"My family and I still watch "Are You Being Served" on the BBC.Thank you,"Captain Peacock" for filling our home with hours of entertainment. RIP,sir."- Melinda Doup (Grove City, OH)

"Thank you Frank for all your lovely letters. We had such fun when you came to visit me at George Bernard Shaw's home Shaw's Corner & I tried to help you with your Shaw Character for your play & you & your lovely Beryl fell in love with my Saimese..."- Diane Uttley (Isle of Wight)

"I'm sorry for your loss. I'll always enjoy seeing Mr. Thornton's performances on Are You Being Served. May you have comfort and peace as you adjust to his absence."- Sandi J Holland (Jacksonville, FL)

"To a super star who sent me a note after I sent him a birthday card for his 91st. You will be missed."- Sheri

"Mr. Thornton, you have brought me countless hours of joy, and were my favorite cast member of "Are You Being Served." You will live on in my memory, and in your countless works. I wish to have known you. God bless your loved ones, and rest in peace."- William Theel (Salt Lake City, UT)